Discover How to Automate qPCR and PCR
Boost efficiency with the CFX Opus Real-Time PCR System and the Hudson Lab Automation SciClops Robotic Arm.
Thermal cycling meets robotic control: The PTC Tempo Thermal Cycler pairs with the Hudson Lab Automation SciClops Robotic Arm.
Tools That Support Your Automation Strategy
Automation-compatible products help your lab streamline workflows while maintaining reliable results.
| Category | Product Name | Automation Compatibility |
|---|---|---|
| qPCR and PCR instruments | CFX Opus Real-Time PCR System | Features a provider‑agnostic API that enables automated lid control and remote start/stop functionality. Its modern, intuitive interface adds new connectivity options, while improved& thermal performance and a precise optical shuttle ensure highly consistent data. |
| PTC Tempo Thermal Cycler | Works with many automated liquid handling systems through utomated lid control and data networking. An API for automation integration is available with the PTC Tempo 96, PTC Tempo Deepwell, and PTC Tempo 384 Thermal Cyclers. | |
| CFX Maestro Software for CFX Real-Time PCR Instruments | Features automated runs, physical automation with the API, and data automation with LIMS integration. | |
| qPCR and PCR reagents | iTaq Universal SYBR® Green Supermix | Compatible with automated pipetting or dispensing used in liquid handling systems, this qPCR supermix provides robust amplification and consistent results. |
| SsoAdvanced Universal Probes Supermix | Engineered for probe-based qPCR, automated dispensing, and outstanding sensitivity and specificity. | |
| Reliance One-Step Multiplex RT-qPCR Supermix | Suitable for automated pipetting or dispensing. Assembled reactions offer 24-hour room temperature stability and are compatible with high-throughput automated methods. | |
| dNTP mix | Available in bulk formats and suitable for automated dispensing. Designed for high-performance PCR to ensure consistent results. | |
| Custom and bulk reagents | Suitable for high-throughput automated systems. | |
| PCR plates | Hard-Shell™ PCR Plates | Feature a rigid two‑component design that maintains flatness and minimizes warping. Available in 96‑ and 384‑well formats and compatible with most automated liquid handling systems. |
| Skirted, semi-skirted, and unskirted plates | Available in various designs to accommodate different automation platforms and thermal cyclers. | |
| Custom PCR plates (96- and 384-well) | Available in various designs to accommodate different automation platforms and thermal cyclers. | |
| PCR plate seals | Adhesive seals and heat seals | Compatible with automated plate sealers to ensure sample integrity and prevent cross-contamination. |
Your CFX Opus System Works with Any Automation Platform
Automate your qPCR workstation to speed up qPCR runs and data analysis.
Get Flexible Automation and Real-Time Control
Use the CFX Opus 96 for general applications, the CFX Opus 384 for higher‑throughput needs, and the CFX Opus Deepwell for larger reaction volumes up to 125 µL. You can integrate any of these block configurations with popular automation platforms, giving you flexibility and adaptability. If you are a CFX Maestro Software user, you can access Bio-Rad’s API for free, giving you remote control of your CFX Opus System in real time.
Security You Can Trust
Your CFX Opus System remains secure and compliant through the CFX Maestro Software, Security Edition, even when connected to an automated workflow. Features such as password‑protected login and file encryption ensure that your data stays protected and traceable.
PCR Automation Made Yours in the PTC Tempo System
Use the PTC Tempo 96 and 384 Systems for high‑throughput applications that require quick and efficient processing of many samples, and the Deepwell configuration for larger reaction volumes up to 125 µL. All three models have an automation‑ready design to help you build a fully automated robotic workstation for quick PCR setup and data analysis, with the flexibility to choose any automation platform that fits your lab.
Consistency Run-to-Run
No matter which automation system you choose, you can expect consistent performance and reproducible results throughout.
Time Savings
By automating routine tasks, you can focus on high-value activities such as experimental design, enhancing overall productivity.
Automation from Setup to Data Storage
Let an automated system handle plate setup, sample processing, thermal cycling, and data analysis, so you can focus on your most ambitious research goals.
- Plate preparation: liquid-handling systems dispense nucleic acids and reagents into 96- or 384-well reaction plates.
- Automated plate handling: robotic arms streamline microplate transfer, setup, and processing.
- Thermal cycling run: plates are run on the CFX Opus or PTC Tempo systems with minimal hands-on work.
- Data analysis: CFX Maestro Software processes real-time data and generates Ct values automatically.
- LIMS integration capabilities: CFX Maestro Software pairs with laboratory information management systems (LIMS).
Efficiency for All Applications
Many qPCR applications are well suited for automation, helping labs increase consistency, reduce hands-on time, and scale throughput with confidence.
Gene Expression Analysis
Automating mRNA quantification ensures consistency and reduces human error.
Microbial Quantification
Automated qPCR quantifies microbial load in environmental and clinical samples, supporting timely detection of microbial contamination.
Pathogen Detection
Automated qPCR speeds up pathogen detection in food and patient samples, supporting timely intervention.
NGS Library Preparation
Automating qPCR-based quantification ensures every library is accurately measured and validated before sequencing.
Copy Number Variation
Automation ensures precise quantification of gene copy numbers in cancer and genetic disorder studies.